The Queensland Government has released its FY27 Budget, delivering a range of measures aimed at supporting small businesses and strengthening skills pathways.
MEA welcomes the Government's continued investment in these critical areas, particularly where funding has been recommitted or expanded to build on existing programs that are already delivering value for industry.
Key budgetary announcements include:
Skills
- Apprenticeship Pilot Program – Continued assistance to cover the cost of apprentice wages during offsite training with $19 million over four years.
- TAFE Centres – Progressing four new TAFE Centres of Excellence this year, in Rockhampton, Caloundra, Petrie and Moreton Bay, with a $201.1 million investment over three years.
- Women's Career Grants – Reducing the costs of returning to work after a career break with $10 million for future funding rounds.
Small Businesses
- Artificial Intelligence – A new $10 million program to support small and family businesses to adopt AI solutions
- Micro-Credential Courses – Support small business owners to upskill and build capability, with $11.5 million over three years.
- Small Business Support Network – Empowering small business through with financial counselling and coaching, with $16.8 million over three years.
- Small and Family Business First Action Statement – Backing more small businesses to grow and access government procurement through training and support, reduced red tape, and easier access to government services with $100 million.
- Energy Cost Savings – Government-owned Ergon will pass on savings to regional Queenslanders in the Energy Roadmap Price Drop of around 7% for households and 8% for small businesses from 1 July.
In addition, it has been announced there will be no new or increased taxes.
MEA commends the QLD Government's commitment to supporting skills development and small business operations.
MEA will continue to advocate for further key priorities for our members, including increased financial support for employers hiring apprentices and additional cost-of-doing-business relief for small businesses operating in a challenging economic environment.
You can read more about the budget here.
